Chateaux and Gardens

Golf - cheaper than the UK

Get you feet wet in the river Thouet?

The Cadre Noire is based at the French International Equestrian Centre in Saumur

Karting at Loudun - great Karts track and fun

Horse-riding is nearby and only 10 Euros/Hr

If you prefer to be active

We have spotted a trend amongst guests that have visited La Charpenterie; they tend to arrive with lots of activity in mind, running shoes etc., but end up relaxing and enjoying the facilities we have here - Heated Pool, Hot tub and sun-beds although bikes are available for anyone so inclined.

The immediate area is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling with safe pathways through vineyards and quiet country roads but here are a few other ideas:-

By far the most popular past time is motoring, the roads in the area are both quiet, and beautiful. The area is very popular with organised classic car runs, visiting chateau, tasting wines and eating fine food. A drive to a local market can take-on so much more when it can be taken at a relaxed pace and without hassle.
The most popular is sport for couples is golfing, which is comparatively inexpensive with 18-holes for two people costing 45euros. In the nearby village of Roiffe there is Le Domaine St Hillaire. where all types of sporting activities can be undertaken; golf, archery, tennis etc. Most of these sports will need to be planned in advance, so let us know your requirements beforehand and we can pre-book them for you.
Water sports in the Loire valley are always popular, but the nearby river Thouet is ideal for canoes and kayaks. Fishing on the Thouet also is very popular where local fisherman catch Pike and Perch for serving at local restaurants.
Horse riding is available in the next village from just €10 per hour, so a 1/2 day could take you through the vineyards or along the banks of the Thouet. Horses are available for all standards of rider.

ImageFor those who prefer their motoring with a little more excitement, there is an outdoor kart track near to Loudun. The track is used for French National Karting events, but is also available for fun days by individuals who want to rent a kart by the session at €13.
There is also a rough-terrain quad-bike track at a chateau on the road to Thouars.

We are less than 70 miles south of Le Mans, via Arnage, so La Charpenterie is an ideal venue to tag a holiday break onto you regular visit to Sarthe for the 24 hour race - Le Mans and spa all in one week. In 2016 there is also the Le Mans Classic in July.